Solid Potato Salad: SSA Choral Octavo

Kirby Shaw's arrangement captures the infectious energy of mid-century swing without requiring advanced harmonic reading or complex voicing gymnastics from SSA singers. The novelty subject matter combined with genuine jazz vocabulary makes this piece a natural energizer on any concert, and the optional instrumental accompaniment parts open up performance possibilities beyond piano. It's the kind of selection that reminds audiences why pop music belongs in the concert hall.

Bright, bouncy, and unapologetically playful. The song captures the zest of a 1940s big-band arrangement shrunk down to three voices, with zippy jazz chords and a rhythm that makes you want to move. By the time you hit that final "big finish," the piece has earned its humor and energy.

SSA choirs with some jazz experience and the rhythmic confidence to handle swing style. This works equally well for middle school and high school choirs, as the range sits comfortably and the novelty appeal keeps singers engaged across all levels.

• Nail the swing articulation early in rehearsal; this style cannot be faked with straight rhythms, so invest rehearsal time in getting the bounce and lift consistent across all three parts.
• Balance the jazz harmonies by having singers listen vertically within their own section before tuning across parts; the bright harmonies work best when each line is secure and confident.
• Bring out the "picnic" add-on section as a genuine musical shift in character and energy; this section is your license to have fun, so let the humor and lightness come through.

Program this on a pops concert, a spring showcase, or any concert where you want to shift the mood from serious choral work into something lighter. It pairs well alongside other novelty or lighter pop selections and serves as a natural opener or second piece when you need to establish an upbeat, engaging tone for the audience.

• Swing rhythms and articulation in a three-part texture
• Jazz harmony recognition and intonation (seventh chords, chromatic passing tones)
• Part independence while maintaining stylistic cohesion
• Lyrical diction and comedic timing in ensemble singing